Further arrests made over ‘shocking’ arson attack on Peacehaven mosque | East Sussex
Police have made new arrests in connection with an arson attack on a mosque in East Sussex.
The building on Phyllis Boulevard, Peacehaven, was severely damaged by a fire that broke out around 9.50pm on Saturday. No one was injured, but police said there was “serious damage” to the front of the building and a nearby vehicle.
A total of four people have so far been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life since Monday. They include a 46-year-old man and three other men, aged 25, 27 and 22. All were released on conditional bail while the investigation continues.
Police said the footage showed two men wearing masks and dark clothing approaching the front door, then spraying gas at the entrance of the mosque, igniting the fire.
DCI Mark Cullimore said: “Our investigation continues apace and we are carrying out extensive house-to-house inquiries, including forensics and intelligence gathering.
“We are determined to identify and arrest those responsible for this shocking attack and continue to appeal to anyone with information vital to our investigation to come forward. Please report here or call 101 quoting Operation Spey.”
Supt Rachel Swinney said: “We will continue to engage directly with all communities affected by this incident to support them and ensure their concerns are heard and taken into account.”
Keir Starmer said the incident was “appalling” and stated that an attack on Muslims was an attack on all British people. Home Affairs Minister Shabana Mahmood said: “We must stand united. This country’s greatest strength has been its ability to build one nation from many communities.”
